7-Day Itinerary from Bangalore to Madikeri

1. Day 1: Bangalore Palace
   15 minutes (3.8 km) from Bengaluru City Center

   In the morning, visit the historical Bangalore Palace, a Tudor-style palace that has now become a popular venue for concerts and events. In the afternoon, head to the nearby Jawaharlal Nehru Planetarium for an interactive astronomy session. In the evening, explore the nearby Tipu Sultan's Summer Palace, an 18th-century fort-like palace that is now a history museum.

2. Day 2: Dubare Elephant Camp
   4 hours (170 km) from Bangalore Palace

   In the morning, drive to Dubare Elephant Camp and spend some time with the majestic elephants. In the afternoon, visit the nearby Harangi Dam, a popular picnic spot with a beautiful view of the reservoir. In the evening, visit the Namdroling Monastery, a Tibetan Buddhist monastery famous for its golden statues and colorful murals.

3. Day 3: Abbey Falls and Raja's Seat
   1.5 hours (45 km) from Dubare Elephant Camp

   In the morning, hike to Abbey Falls, a scenic waterfall surrounded by lush greenery. In the afternoon, visit Raja's Seat, a beautiful garden and viewpoint that was once a favorite spot of the kings of Kodagu. In the evening, explore the nearby Madikeri Fort, a historical fort that houses a museum and a temple.

4. Day 4: Talacauvery and Bhagamandala
   2 hours (60 km) from Raja's Seat

   In the morning, visit Talacauvery, the birthplace of the River Cauvery, and take a dip in the holy waters. In the afternoon, visit the nearby Bhagamandala, a pilgrimage site where the Cauvery River meets the Kannike and Sujyoti rivers. In the evening, relax and enjoy the scenic beauty of the countryside.

5. Day 5: Iruppu Falls and Nagarhole National Park
   2 hours (80 km) from Talacauvery

   In the morning, go on a trek to Iruppu Falls, a picturesque waterfall located in the Brahmagiri Range. In the afternoon, visit Nagarhole National Park, a wildlife sanctuary known for its tiger and elephant sightings. In the evening, return to Madikeri and explore the local markets.

6. Day 6: Omkareshwara Temple and Gaddige
   30 minutes (2.5 km) from Madikeri

   In the morning, visit Omkareshwara Temple, a beautiful temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, built in a mix of Gothic and Islamic styles. In the afternoon, visit Gaddige, a tomb complex that houses the tombs of Kodava kings and queens. In the evening, enjoy a cup of local coffee at a nearby cafe.

7. Day 7: Departure
   4.5 hours (250 km) from Madikeri to Bangalore Airport

   In the morning, check out of your hotel and drive back to Bangalore. Depending on your flight time, you can explore the city and visit some local markets. Depart for your onward journey.

Recommendations

While in Madikeri, don't miss the opportunity to go on a coffee plantation tour to learn about the coffee-making process. You can also take a day trip to Chikmagalur, known for its scenic beauty and coffee plantations. To maximize your fun, try some local Kodava cuisine and shopping for souvenirs at the local markets.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Bangalore Palace (2 hours, INR 230)
• Jawaharlal Nehru Planetarium (1 hour, INR 60)
• Tipu Sultan's Summer Palace (1 hour, INR 15)
• Dubare Elephant Camp (3 hours, INR 1500)
• Harangi Dam (1 hour, Free)
• Namdroling Monastery (2 hours, Free)
• Abbey Falls (2 hours, INR 15)
• Raja's Seat (1.5 hours, INR 5)
• Madikeri Fort (1 hour, INR 10)
• Talacauvery (2 hours, Free)
• Bhagamandala (1 hour, Free)
• Iruppu Falls (3 hours, INR 50)
• Nagarhole National Park (3 hours, INR 200)
• Omkareshwara Temple (1 hour, INR 10)
• Gaddige (1 hour, INR 25)
• Food and Souvenirs (INR 500 per day)
• Total Estimated Costs (excluding hotel and transportation): INR 2620

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